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Unplanned Pregnancy

Pregnancy can trigger strong and confusing emotions and bring you face to face with some of life’s biggest decisions, especially if your pregnancy is unexpected. If you find yourself in this situation, please feel free to come in for a no-cost, confidential chat with a University counsellor who can help you consider your options.

If you are a student from another country, please know it is acceptable in Australia to talk to a counsellor about pregnancy or any related matters, such as sex or sexual health, and cultural differences will be respected.

Thinking through your optionsIn the early stages you will need to choose either to continue with the pregnancy, continue with the pregnancy and find alternative care for the baby, or terminate the pregnancy. It goes without saying that this is a very important decision which you should consider carefully.

Continuing with the pregnancyIf you decide to become a parent, you will need to organise antenatal care for yourself and the baby. To help you with this, you should make an appointment as soon as possible to see a doctor and discuss care options during your pregnancy. If you have already decided you would like to have your baby in a public hospital call the Pregnancy SA Infoline on 1300 368 820.

Alternative care and adoptionPlacing your child into alternative care such as with a foster family or for adoption is not an easy decision. While foster care does not have to be a permanent arrangement, adoption is. Therefore, it is important for you to carefully consider all possible options before making a decision. In addition to talking with a counsellor about your choices, the Adoption and Family Information Service (AFIS) can provide you with expert advice and help you to make the best decision taking into account your circumstances. To contact AFIS call (08) 8207 0060 or email adoptions@dfc.sa.gov.au. Further information about alternative care and adoption can also be found at Families SA.